Pick Analysis: The Broncos opt for Demaryius Thomas over Dez Bryant as their future No.1 receiver. Though Bryant entered the draft as the more accomplished player, Thomas' big-play potential and solid character profile apparently led to Josh McDaniels' decision to favor the former Yellow Jacket. In making the decision to choose potential over production, McDaniels continues to place himself in the cross hairs with his controversial decisions.

Overview

Thomas has rare measurables for the wide receiver position and will be a very attractive gamble for some team after the first round. He shows excellent vertical speed, especially for someone his size, and can be intimidating to a cornerback when isolated on the perimeter. He has the size of a tight end with the speed, agility and ball skills of a wide receiver. He needs a lot of work on his route running skills as he tends to round off his breaks and will telegraph his routes with too much upper body movement. He can make acrobatic type catches but will drop some very catchable passes due to lapses in concentration. He is not a very physical blocker on the edge in spite of his massive size advantage. In a recent workout, Thomas broke his foot and will be unable to participate in combine drills.

Strengths

Possesses elite size and physicality for the receiver position. Has good top-end speed. Has been productive in a system not overly friendly to receivers. Really good catching the ball in a crowd. Will rise up above defenders and shield players with his large frame. Exhibits natural hands and consistently catches the ball away from his body.

Weaknesses

Thomas runs sloppy routes and is raw with his route-running in general. Needs to be more consistent with his concentration on the ball. Blocking must improve at the next level, which is tough to swallow given his size. Can make strides in this area due to natural measurables. In a recent workout, Thomas broke his foot and will be unable to participate in combine drills.